HAPPY DIWALI | Standing together in light and unity

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SCGF staff in their Diwali attire during the Diwali celebration in Lautoka. Picture: BALJEET SINGH

As the Hindu community across Fiji and around the world celebrates Diwali, the Festival of Lights, we extend our heartfelt greetings and stand in solidarity with them during this sacred time. Diwali is a celebration of light triumphing over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair, and values that resonate deeply across all faiths and cultures.

In the spirit of unity, we affirm our commitment to peace, mutual respect, and shared joy. The Bible reminds us in Romans 12:15 to “Rejoice with those who rejoice.” Today, we rejoice with our Hindu brothers and sisters as they light their homes and hearts with faith, love, and renewal.

As the Festival of Lights brightens homes across Fiji, we pause to reflect on the deeper meaning of light in our lives and in our nation. Diwali, celebrated as the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, echoes the biblical truth found in John 1:5: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

This season reminds us that light is not just physical, but it is spiritual. The Bible teaches that Jesus Christ is the Light of the World (John 8:12), and those who follow Him will never walk in darkness. As families light diyas and candles, let us also ignite the flame of faith, hope, and love in our hearts. Let our homes be filled not only with brightness but with righteousness, compassion, and unity.

Fiji stands at a crossroads. We have faced so many challenges; economic, social, and environmental, but we are not without hope. Just as Diwali marks a new beginning, so too can this season mark a renewal for our beloved nation. In Isaiah 60:1, we are called to rise: “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.” This is not just a call to individuals, it is a call to families, churches, communities, to leaders, and to our country as a whole.

Let us envision a Fiji where light leads the way, where justice prevails, where children grow up in peace, and where diversity is celebrated as a divine gift.

The light of Diwali reminds us that darkness is temporary. With faith, we can overcome division, despair, and doubt. With love, we can build bridges across cultures and creeds. With wisdom, we can chart a path toward prosperity and peace.

This Diwali, may we be inspired by the biblical call to be “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14). Let our actions reflect the light of Christ—serving the poor, comforting the brokenhearted, and standing for truth. Let our leaders be guided by integrity and humility. Let our youth be empowered to dream boldly and act bravely.

As the lights of Diwali flicker across the islands of Fiji, may they symbolise the divine spark within each of us. May they remind us that no matter how dark the night, the dawn always comes. And may they lead us toward a future where Fiji shines, not just with electric light, but with spiritual brilliance.

Let us pray for Fiji: that our leaders walk in wisdom, our youth rise in hope, and our communities shine with love. May we be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14), bringing peace, justice, and unity to our Vanua.

Happy Diwali. May the Light of God guide Fiji into a radiant future. Amen.

 

Sugar Cane Growers Council and Sugar Cane Growers Fund staff during the Diwali celebration in Lautoka. Picture: BALJEET SINGH

Meresiana Nuku during the Razzle Dazzle Event Diwali celebrations at the MHCC foyer in Suva on Saturday, October 18, 2025. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU

Sharon Kumar appaludes the crowd during the Razzle Dazzle Event Diwali celebrations at the MHCC foyer in Suva on Saturday, October 18, 2025. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU